City of Santa Fe Announces Finalists for Police Chief

The City of Santa Fe has selected two finalists for the position of Santa Fe police chief: Interim Police Chief Ben Valdez and former Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza.

The finalists were selected following a national search and evaluation process focused on leadership experience, public safety expertise, organizational management, and a commitment to building trust between the Santa Fe Police Department and the community.

Valdez has served as interim police chief since June 2026. A longtime member of the Santa Fe Police Department, Valdez brings extensive experience in law enforcement and department operations to the position.

Mendoza served as Santa Fe County sheriff and brings years of law enforcement leadership experience, including experience overseeing a large public safety organization.

As part of the selection process, the City is inviting members of the public to meet both finalists and hear directly from them about their leadership approach and vision for the Santa Fe Police Department.

The public meet-and-greet will be held:

Thursday, Oct. 1

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Santa Fe Community Convention Center

201 W. Marcy St.

Residents will have an opportunity to speak with both candidates and learn more about their experience, priorities, and vision for the department. Public participation is an important part of the City's effort to select the next permanent police chief.

"Choosing our next police chief is one of the most important decisions we will make for the safety and future of Santa Fe," said Mayor Michael Garcia. "We want our community to have an opportunity to meet the finalists, hear their ideas, and be part of this process. Strong public safety depends on strong leadership and a strong relationship between our police department and the people we serve."

The City will announce the selection of the next police chief following the completion of the final selection process.

About the Finalists

Ben Valdez

Valdez has served as interim chief of the Santa Fe Police Department since June 2026. He has a career with the department spanning multiple assignments and leadership roles and brings firsthand knowledge of the department, its personnel, and the community it serves.

Adan Mendoza

Mendoza is the former Santa Fe County sheriff and has extensive law enforcement leadership experience. During his career, he served in leadership roles focused on public safety, community engagement, and the administration of law enforcement operations.

Peter Olson

City of Santa Fe

Communications Director

(505) 819-1062